Cabinet Confirms Error: Taghi and Saïd R. Briefly Contactedin EBI
Vught, Netherlands – The Dutch Cabinet has confirmedthat there was a brief, unintentional contact between high-profile detainees Ridouan Taghi and Saïd R. at the Extra Secure Institution (EBI) inVught. State Secretary Ingrid Coenradie (Justice and Security) revealed in a letter to Parliament that the contact, lasting approximately twenty seconds, occurred due toan error.
This is highly undesirable from a safety perspective, Coenradie stated, adding that she has requested a thorough evaluation of the incident and the implementation of additional security measures.
While the Cabinet declined to name the specificdetainees involved for security reasons, multiple sources have confirmed that the contact involved Taghi and Saïd R., both sentenced to life imprisonment for their roles in the Marengo criminal organization.
The incident came to light after Taghi was movedwithin the EBI in late July, placing him in a section separated only by glass from Saïd R. and fellow life-sentenced inmate Willem Holleeder. Taghi’s lawyer, Thomas van der Horst, had previously alluded to contact between the detainees without providing details.
The revelation sparked inquiries from variouspolitical parties, prompting the Cabinet’s clarification.
The incident highlights concerns about security protocols at the EBI, particularly given the high-profile nature of the detainees housed there. Coenradie acknowledged that brief visual contact between prisoners in different sections can occur in incidental situations, such as when a prisoner isescorted for a lawyer appointment while other prisoners are engaged in activities outside their cells.
The Marengo trial, which resulted in the convictions of Taghi, Saïd R., and 14 other individuals, involved six assassinations, four attempted killings, and plans for further murders. The case has been a major focusfor Dutch law enforcement, with authorities taking extensive measures to ensure the security of the detainees and the integrity of the legal proceedings.
The news of the brief contact comes as Taghi’s son, Faissal, is currently held in the EBI under a strict isolation regime following his extradition from Dubai. Faissal’s lawyers have expressed concerns about the inhuman and disproportionate conditions of his detention.
The Cabinet’s confirmation of the error and its commitment to implementing additional security measures are likely to be closely scrutinized by both the public and the legal community. The incident raises questions about the effectivenessof security protocols at the EBI and the potential risks associated with housing high-profile criminals in close proximity.
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